The Milwaukee Bucks briefly explored a trade involving Jonathan Kuminga to complement Giannis Antetokounmpo but ultimately did not pursue the deal. This decision took place during recent offseason moves, as the Bucks focused on signing Myles Turner after releasing Damian Lillard and re-signing important free agents including Bobby Portis, Kevin Porter Jr., and Gary Trent Jr. The Bucks’ decision was influenced by their commitment to Portis, who inked a three-year, $43.5 million contract this offseason.
Insider Brett Siegel revealed that while the Bucks considered acquiring Kuminga from the Golden State Warriors, they declined to engage in a sign-and-trade involving Portis. The Warriors reportedly insisted on including Portis in any deal for Kuminga, a condition Milwaukee was unwilling to meet.
“It is also worth mentioning that the Milwaukee Bucks were another team that kicked around the idea of pursuing Kuminga,” Siegel wrote on Thursday. “If they were to do so, the Warriors made it known they would want Bobby Portis in a sign-and-trade scenario, which is something Milwaukee wasn’t willing to do.”
—Brett Siegel, Insider
Portis has played a significant role during the Antetokounmpo era in Milwaukee, offering valuable floor spacing and inside presence. Despite Kuminga’s youth and potential upside, his style—relying heavily on athleticism without strong floor-spacing skills—may not have fit well alongside Antetokounmpo’s game.
The value of Bobby Portis as a premier floor spacer for the Bucks
Bobby Portis, standing 6-foot-10, is recognized as one of the league’s best stretch big men, maintaining a career three-point shooting percentage of 38.3%. His ability to space the floor helps the Bucks maximize Giannis Antetokounmpo’s impact on offense by opening driving lanes and creating more scoring opportunities.
This floor-spacing capability is a critical component of Milwaukee’s strategy, especially given Antetokounmpo’s style of play, which benefits from teammates who can reliably hit perimeter shots. Retaining Portis was therefore a priority for the Bucks’ front office.
Golden State Warriors’ interest in Portis fades as focus shifts to Al Horford
The Golden State Warriors had long shown interest in acquiring Bobby Portis, dating back to trade speculation at the 2024 deadline and extending into recent free agency discussions. Insiders have noted that Steve Kerr, Golden State’s coach, is a strong admirer of Portis, stemming from their shared experience during the 2023 FIBA World Cup with USA Basketball.
“Golden State has always been a team to monitor for Portis, who has a notable fan in head coach Steve Kerr from their shared days during the 2023 FIBA World Cup competition with USA Basketball,” said Jake Fischer.
—Jake Fischer, Insider
Despite this interest, the Warriors have reportedly stepped back from aggressively pursuing Portis in favor of signing Al Horford, who is expected to fulfill a similar role as a versatile big man capable of stretching the floor.
This shift suggests the Bucks’ decision to hold on to Portis has effectively halted trade talks involving Kuminga, leaving Milwaukee’s roster intact around Antetokounmpo for the immediate future.
Implications for Milwaukee’s upcoming season and roster strategy
By retaining Bobby Portis and adding Myles Turner, the Bucks have prioritized floor spacing and veteran experience to complement Giannis Antetokounmpo’s dominant inside game. The decision to pass on Kuminga—despite his upside—reflects a preference for roster stability and proven fit over speculative potential.
As the Bucks prepare for the new season, keeping Portis signals their commitment to maintaining a core group built around Antetokounmpo’s strengths. Meanwhile, Golden State’s approach to acquiring Horford shows different team-building priorities. The Bucks’ choices this offseason will be key factors in how they compete in the upcoming NBA campaign.